In one of the most dramatic clashes of the Asia Cup, India defeated Sri Lanka in a Super Over to book their place in the final against Pakistan. Pathum Nissanka stunning 107 off 58 balls had nearly taken Sri Lanka home, but Arshdeep Singh brilliance in the Super Over ensured India unbeaten run in the tournament stayed intact.
A Thriller in Regulation Time
Batting first, India posted 202/5, thanks to Abhishek Sharma fiery 61 off 31 balls and Tilak Varma unbeaten 49 off 34. Suryakumar Yadav chipped in with 12 while Sanju Samson added crucial runs in the middle overs.
Sri Lanka reply was equally strong. Nissanka (107) and Kusal Perera (58 off 32) put on a 127-run stand off just 70 balls, the biggest of the tournament, bringing them within touching distance of victory. However, once they departed, Sri Lanka middle and lower order collapsed, leaving the game tied at 202/5.
Super Over Drama: Arshdeep Runs the Show
Sri Lanka shockingly decided not to send Nissanka in the Super Over. Instead, Kusal Perera, Dasun Shanaka, and Kamindu Mendis came out. That move backfired badly.
- Perera was caught at deep point off the very first ball.
- Kamindu Mendis struggled to rotate strike.
- Shanaka couldn’t handle Arshdeep pinpoint wide yorkers.
Sri Lanka scraped together just 2 runs.
India chase was short and sweet. Suryakumar Yadav smashed Wanindu Hasaranga first ball for three runs, sealing India passage to the final in style.
Abhishek Sharma Explosive Powerplay
Earlier in the match, Abhishek Sharma set the tone with a blistering knock. He reached his fifty in just 22 balls, dominating the powerplay with big shots against Dushmantha Chameera and others. By the 6th over, India were cruising at 71/1. His eventual 61 off 31 balls gave India the momentum they needed.
Nissanka Lone Battle
On the other side, Pathum Nissanka played one of the finest T20I innings ever for Sri Lanka, becoming only their fourth centurion in the format. His 108 off 58 balls is now the highest individual score by a Sri Lankan in T20Is. Sadly for him, his teammates couldn’t capitalize on his brilliance.
What’s Next?
With this victory, India remain unbeaten in the Asia Cup 2025 and will now face arch-rivals Pakistan in the final. Sri Lanka, meanwhile, will be left to regret some questionable Super Over decisions that cost them dearly.
